BREAKING: Newcastle United seriously pushing to sign 25-year-old Premier League defender
Newcastle United aims to secure the services of 25-year-old Bournemouth center-back Lloyd Kelly in the forthcoming summer transfer window. The Magpies are keen on reinforcing their defensive lineup ahead of the upcoming season, as reported by HITC.
In their quest to fortify their defensive options with both depth and quality, Newcastle United is eyeing a cost-effective deal for Kelly. The defender, who transitioned to Bournemouth from Bristol City in 2019, has become an integral part of their first-team setup in recent seasons.
With his contract set to expire in the summer and no indications of renewal, Kelly is poised to become a free agent. Newcastle United sees this as an opportunity to swoop in and secure his services when the transfer window opens, bolstering their defensive ranks.
Newcastle United are facing an injury crisis
With Sven Botman already sidelined due to a long-term injury, Newcastle United had been actively seeking a central defender. However, the situation has taken a turn for the worse with Jamaal Lascelles also joining the ranks of the injured. Lascelles, the Newcastle captain, is expected to be out for approximately nine months due to a serious knee injury.
The absence of the 30-year-old captain has forced Newcastle to revise their summer plans, now focusing on securing the addition of two new centre-backs to bolster their defensive lineup.
Only one specialist centre-back is fit for Newcastle United
With only Fabian Schar remaining as their sole dependable first-choice central defender, Eddie Howe finds himself with limited options in defense. As a result, Newcastle United is ramping up their efforts to secure the signing of Lloyd Kelly. The Magpies are eager to accelerate their pursuit of the soon-to-be free agent.
Bringing in the 25-year-old not only offers additional depth to their central defense but also adds versatility as Kelly is capable of playing as a left-back. This versatility provides Eddie Howe with further tactical options.
Newcastle is taking a proactive approach to their transfer dealings this time around, aiming to prepare themselves as effectively as possible for the upcoming season.